THE PRAYERS, January 6, 2023: The Epiphany of Our Lord
Isaiah 60:1-6 (Arise, shine, your light has come; nations stream to Israel, bringing gifts)
Psalm 72:1-11 (Prayer for guidance and support for the King)
RCL/ELW: Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
Ephesians 3:1-12 (The mystery of salvation revealed to Gentiles; Paul has become steward of God’s mysteries so that through the Church, nations may know God’s wisdom)
Matthew 2:1-12 (The magi adore Jesus, bringing gifts, departing by another way)
Let us pray that the light of Christ may shine upon the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.
A brief silence
Heavenly Father, thank you for the Light of the World, your dear Son! Thank you that in him, you reveal your mercy and loving-kindness to all people. Thank you that in him, you reveal yourself as Lord and God of all, until the world ends and Christ is all in all.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Make your Church a faithful steward of the mysteries of Christ. Raise up faithful pastors and teachers of your Word and holy Sacraments. May the Church’s worship, fellowship, and acts of charity be as frankincense, gold, and myrrh offered to her infant Redeemer.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Make this congregation a place where even sinners, strangers, and Gentiles encounter the living Christ. Shape us into “magi” who eagerly seek, study, and worship Jesus. And send us home “by a different way” – as his disciples and his sisters and brothers.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
As you guarded the magi from Herod’s malice, we pray that you would protect and bless your Church wherever it suffers from the malice of persecutors or the scorn of its despisers.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
We pray on behalf of scholars and teachers; scientists and philosophers; and especially seminary professors and students. Increase their numbers and their zeal for seeking your truth! Give them grace to adore you, the source of truth and wisdom. And give them generous hearts, to freely share their wisdom, knowledge, curiosity, and faith.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Put your Spirit upon the leaders of this and every nation, that they may faithfully bring forth and establish justice throughout the world. Give them the wisdom and the will to rightly protect and provide for their people, especially those who are like “bruised reeds and faintly burning wicks.” Make them prefer mercy over might; righteousness over renown; and integrity over influence.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
We lift before you the men and women in the armed forces, and those are police, first responders, and others charged with protecting life and liberty. Grant them such integrity and courage that those whose lives are most in danger may call on them with confidence. Bring them safely home to their loved ones; and heal those who are wounded in body, mind or soul.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
Bring the light of Christ to everyone who dwells in the shadows of suffering, sin or sorrow, especially those we lift before you now, including: {list}. Give competence, compassion, and patience to everyone charged with their care; and grant health and hope according to your merciful wisdom.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
We thank you for the lives of all your faithful servants who through word and example have been stewards of your Gospel. Give to us wisdom and devotion, so that we seek your will throughout our earthly life; and give us the strength and the means to do it. And, in your good time, lead us “by another way” to the eternal home and inheritance you have prepared for all who are redeemed by your beloved Son. For there, we will adore your glorious wisdom and delight in your merciful love in the power of your Holy Spirit forever.
Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.
All these things, and whatever else you see that we need, grant to us, dear Father, for the sake of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
